The Lake Tahoe region is one of the most beautiful and desirable in America. Summers in the region have balmy days and cool nights, perfect for a day of golf or out on the crystalline lake. Abundant wildflowers wash the landscape in color and fragrance. During the winter, The Lake Tahoe region becomes one of the most popular ski resort areas in the country. With a bonanza of activities, Lake Tahoe is one of the top vacation destinations, and one of the most desirable locations to live.

There are simply no shortage of attractions, festivals and events in this area throughout the year. The ever-popular popular Squaw Valley hosts a free live music on Thursday evenings at is outdoor plaza. On Wednesdays, locals and visitors alike gather in the same spot for the free Village Movie Series. Northstar at Tahoe hosts evening mountain bike races, a popular draw for both courageous competitors and spectators alike. If you are an antique car buff, there are several antique and specialty car races and shows throughout the area. These draw car owners from across the country, perhaps as an excuse to vacation in this magnificent area.

Of course, the lake is a focal point for both visitors and residents alike. With its crystal blue water, Lake Tahoe is a haven for boating, fishing and swimming. In July, the Tahoe Yacht Club hosts the Trans Tahoe Sailboat Race. With sailboats of all sizes and prices competing, it is a great competition for its participants and a remarkable sight for spectators on the shore. Family fun is the name of the game during the Old West Weekend, when the town is transformed into the wild west. There are plenty of stunts and shoot-outs demonstrated on the streets. Children can take pony rides and families can pan for gold and make leather bracelet keepsakes. Vendors offer plenty of kettle corn and ice cream, and stages are erected for live music.

For the price of a cable car ride, you can experience the annual Squaw Valley Bluegrass Festival. Held on the greens at High Camp, the festival draws bluegrass newcomers and legends alike to play Lake Tahoe. For amateur athletes, the Donner Lake Triathlon is a popular draw, and a challenge for beginners and experts alike. Equestrians can take part in the Tevis Cup Horse Race. Called "a challenge in which every rider can be a hero, if only to himself", this is an amateur event that summons riders over a hundred miles from Squaw Valley to Auburn.

Or, if your tastes run to the more artistic, there is the decades-old Community Writers Poetry Workshop. Bringing award winning names such as Amy Tan and George Plimpton to town, this weekend workshop offers writers an array of activities. Participants can take part in activities ranging from panel discussions talks with professional writers, editors and agents to interactive writing assignments and live readings given by authors. But perhaps one of the biggest draws of the year is the Art, Wine and Music Festival. The area springs to life with musicians, artists and craftsmen. There are wine and brewery tastings for the adults and a kids' zone for children.

Of course, the skiing and snowboarding opportunities in Lake Tahoe are abundant. With fluffy white powder and world class resort amenities, the region offers something for beginners, amateurs and experts alike. Those just starting out can choose from a number of ski and snowboarding schools in the area and at local resorts. Afterward, you might choose to enjoy some apres-ski dining on the deck of one of the numerous restaurants perched on the lake. As you lean back in your chair and enjoy the serenity of the setting, there will be no doubt in your mind that you just wouldn't want to be anywhere else.